Paul tells Timothy to hold “on to faith and a good conscience” (1 Timothy 1:19, NIV). He says that this is how you “fight the battle well” (vs. 18). Holding on to faith means that we are committed to the Christian faith – its doctrines as revealed in the Word of God. Holding on to a good conscience means to live a pure life, according to pastor John MacArthur.

We are in a battle. We battle not against people (flesh and blood – Ephesians 6:12, NIV), but rather against the enemy of our souls. The enemy will use whatever tactics he can to try and trip us up and ensnare us. If we study God’s Word and know it, we can fight back against the devil’s trickery. If we have a clean conscience, we know that the accuser has nothing against us. No one will believe a bad word about us if we live good lives. The Holy Spirit will lead us in the battle and will give us the victory through faith and by the power of God’s Word. This victory does not come through our strength or power. It is only by faith in the power of God and His grace. Jesus gives us the victory over the evil one. Don’t try to fight against him on your own! Study your Bible and pray, pray, pray for God’s blessing of victory. Then, when victory over temptation and sin comes, give God the glory for it.

1 Timothy 1:18-20 (NIV)

Timothy, my son, I am giving you this command in keeping with the prophecies once made about you, so that by recalling them you may fight the battle well,19 holding on to faith and a good conscience, which some have rejected and so have suffered shipwreck with regard to the faith.20 Among them are Hymenaeus and Alexander, whom I have handed over to Satan to be taught not to blaspheme.